FAQ

Do I need a referral from my GP?

In order to be eligible for a Medicare rebate on your test or consultation, a valid referral from a registered General Practitioner is required.

Do I need to fast for my test?

There is no need to fast for most outpatient cardiology tests. For Abdominal Aorta Ultrasound tests, you will be required to fast for 4 hours. If you are having an inpatient procedure under a Cardiologist, you will be advised as part of your preparation.

Do I need to stop my medication prior to my test?

You should not cease any medications unless instructed to do so by your General Practitioner or Cardiologist. Your Doctor may ask you to cease Betablocker medication 24 hours prior to exercising testing.

How do I pay my Account?

What is a Pacemaker?

A pacemaker is a small device inserted under the skin of the chest to help control arrhythmias or abnormal heart rhythms. The device is composed of three parts: a pulse generator, one or more leads, and an electrode on each lead. Pacemakers use low-energy electrical pulses to prompt the heart to beat at a normal rate.

A pacemaker may be performed on an outpatient basis or as part of your stay in a hospital. You will receive a sedative medication before the procedure to help you relax. However, you will likely remain awake during the procedure.

Pacemakers can relieve some arrhythmia symptoms, such as fatigue, dizzy spells, shortness of breath and fainting. A pacemaker can also help a person who has abnormal heart rhythms resume a more active lifestyle.

After a pacemaker insertion, regularly scheduled appointments will be made to ensure the pacemaker is functioning properly.

What is an Angiogram?

A coronary angiogram or cardiac catheter is the “gold standard” for the evaluation of coronary artery disease (CAD). The procedure uses X-Rays to investigate the coronary arteries to see if there is narrowing or blockage. Narrowing in these arteries can cause chest pain (angina) and a blockage can cause a heart attack.

An angiogram is a ‘day procedure’ performed under local anaesthetic and intravenous sedation, so causes minimal discomfort. After inserting a contrast dye, the Cardiologist inserts a small catheter through the skin into an artery in either the groin or the wrist to examine the coronary arteries.

If the Cardiologist identifies a significant narrowing or blockage, the coronary artery may possibly be treated during the angiogram by a technique known as Angioplasty or Stent.

When will my result be sent to my GP?

Please allow 5 working days for your report to be sent to your nominated GP. If there is a special reason that you require your result sooner, please let us know at the time of booking and we will do our utmost to accommodate your request.

Will my account be covered by Medicare or my Private Health Insurer?

WA Cardiology is a private billing practice. If you hold a valid Medicare card, your account will be partly covered by Medicare (with the exception of BP monitors). The remainder of the account will be your responsibility. Discounts apply to Pensioners and Health Care Card holders. Private Health Insurance is only applicable for hospital inpatient accounts and varies depending on your level of cover.

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With many metropolitan and country locations, WA Cardiology is the longest established cardiology testing and consulting service in Western Australia